What specific health issue are sulfites known to trigger in sensitive individuals, despite being used since Roman times?
Answer
Severe asthma symptoms.
Sulfites function both as preservatives and antioxidants, commonly added to items like wine and dried fruits to extend their stability. While generally considered safe for the majority of the population, sulfites pose a specific respiratory risk for a subset of consumers. For individuals who have sulfite sensitivity, exposure to sulfites—even at regulated levels—can precipitate severe asthmatic reactions. This sensitivity issue is a key reason why manufacturers moving toward cleaner labels often seek alternatives, as this adverse reaction profile makes sulfites less desirable than ingredients with broader tolerance profiles.
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